This exhibition of pastels and collage by George Trippe is an extension of his earlier work but now strong colour expresses itself in unexpected and dynamic ways.  Allied to this exuberance is an increased energy in mark making with lines and shapes that criss-cross in sometimes chaotic abandon.  However, this energy is always contained and sometimes restrained by the dominant geometric shapes that lay imposed on the surface.  In such cases the inherent energy tends to be dissected, leading the viewer to the conclusion that decorative aspects predominate.

For example, The Colourful Nature of Darkness is full of exciting energy patterns but the too literal circle remains contradictory in an otherwise holistic experience.  Again in My Life is in Your Hands the richness of the tissue collage is contrasted with the dominance of the geometric cut out shapes.  This reduces connections with the energetic rhythms and patterns that form the basis of the work.

A satisfactory exception is Praise where a delightful sphere is held gently by the expanding marks of confident colour.  The artist states this was done with the opposite hand.  Such a technique reveals a truthfulness to the spirit of the theme.  The essence of Soul Passion may or may not be a seamless never ending journey involving a variety of energies but it should never be concretized into a predominant decoration.

This engagement of Rev. Trippe's with the visual elements of spirituality opens up new and exciting territory.  Trippe sets an example as pioneer and explorer in both visual and verbal language that enriches, captures and edifies.  With this exhibition he opens our eyes, if we allow him, to boundless possibilities which may otherwise be denied by a liturgy based on words alone.

This exhibition is a must for those who hope to engage the soul with passion, for without passion, the soul is denied its lifeblood.